Skill: scienceworld-task-focuser

Purpose

Formally declare intent to interact with a specific object in the ScienceWorld environment. The focus on action is a required preparatory step that signals to the system which object subsequent actions (use, measure, connect) will target, often unlocking necessary state changes or measurement capabilities.

When to Use

• Before using a measurement tool (e.g., thermometer) on a target object
• Before complex operations such as connecting, mixing, or combining objects
• When a task description explicitly instructs "focus on" an object
• To confirm the correct item is in inventory before proceeding with an action

Workflow

1. Identify the target object -- Determine the exact name as it appears in the environment (e.g., thermometer, metal fork).
2. Locate the object -- Use look around or inventory to confirm the object's location (environment or inventory).
3. Execute the focus action -- Issue the appropriate command:
   • Object in the environment: focus on <OBJECT_NAME>
   • Object in inventory: focus on <OBJECT_NAME> in inventory
4. Verify confirmation -- Wait for the system response: "You focus on the <OBJECT_NAME>." before proceeding to the next step.

Examples

Example 1: Preparing to measure temperature of a metal fork

> focus on thermometer in inventory
You focus on the thermometer.

> focus on metal fork in inventory
You focus on the metal fork.

> use thermometer on metal fork
The thermometer measures a temperature of 23 degrees celsius.

Example 2: Focusing on an environmental object before moving it

> look around
You see: a table, a blue box, a red box, a metal fork (on table).

> focus on metal fork
You focus on the metal fork.

> move metal fork to blue box
You move the metal fork to the blue box.

Important Notes

• This skill does not perform the main action (e.g., measuring). It only prepares for it.
• The focus action has no physical effect on the object; it is a declarative meta-action.
• Always wait for the confirmation observation before attempting the next step.
• If the object is not found, use look around, examine, or teleport to to locate it before attempting to focus.